Power pro-business advocacy groups who also have a focus on or include members of the high tech and life science industries are either analyzing the recently passed Public Facilities Privacy & Security Act or steering clear of any comment.

While numerous large to small technology and life science companies with operations in North Carolina have spoken out against the law, the reaction among the business groups is much more muted – or no reaction at all.

Meanwhile, a group of startups reacted strongly against HB2 last week and now have launched a website to protest HB2

Better known as HB2, the bill already has caused some economic fallout, from possible loss of events to economic expansions.

Some firms also say the bill will hurt talent recruiting efforts.

WRAL TechWire reached out to various groups for comment.

  • The Council for Entrepreneurial Development

Based in Durham, the CED, which is one of the largest such organizations in the U.S., is “monitoring the situation.”

In a statement, CED President and CEO Joan Siefert Rose, said:

“CED has been following HB2 closely and has received feedback from our members about how the legislation may or may not affect their businesses.

“As a non-profit, 501(c)3, CED is prevented from advocating for or against public policy.

“CED does, however, view with concern any issue that may prevent North Carolina entrepreneurs from growing a successful company in the state.

“We will be monitoring the situation as it develops, provide information to our membership, and continue to work tirelessly to create opportunities for entrepreneurial companies in North Carolina to thrive and succeed.”

  • North Carolina Chamber

The North Carolina Chamber also says it is reviewing the legislation.

“North Carolina Chamber members strive to make our state economy the most vibrant possible and the best place to work, live and raise our families,” said Kate Catlin, vice president of communications for the NC Chamber.

“We run our businesses based on a factual understanding of the challenges we face. The North Carolina Chamber is conducting an analysis of the recently passed law, HB2. We look forward to leading our state to new opportunities for North Carolina’s current residents and those who want to join us in the future.”

Staying mum

The North Carolina Technology Association, which is the largest pro-business lobbying and advocacy group for technology companies across the state, is mum about the bill.

“NCTA does not currently have a position,” a spokesperson said.

A similar position was taken by the Research Triangle Regional Partnershi when asked about whether a position had been taken on HB2.

“In regards to your question, we are a marketing organization and not a public policy organization,” said Bo Carson, vice president of business development.

The North Carolina Biosciences Organization, had a similar reaction.

“No,” responded Sam Taylor, the NCBio president, when asked about a position on HB2. “Not our area.”